Thames Valley Air Ambulance first H135 helicopter

Thames Valley Air Ambulance has taken delivery of the first H135 EMS helicopter in the UK.

The helicopter was initially delivered to Bond Air Services in August 2015 for fitting of an Aerolite EMS interior and completion, the H135 will replace Thames Valley Air Ambulance’s current EC135T2, in service since 2008.

“We are looking forward to bringing it into service as our next generation EMS aircraft.”

Mark McGeown, CEO Thames Valley Air Ambulance said: “We are looking forward to bringing it into service as our next generation EMS aircraft. The improved performance, increased payload and better fuel economy of the Airbus H135, combined with NVIS capabilities, will enable our crews to take the major step into night HEMS operations. This is key to the future development of our air ambulance service.”

“The H135 is the latest evolution of Airbus Helicopters’ most successful light, twin-engine helicopter.”

Colin James, UK managing director Airbus Helicopters, said: “The H135 is the latest evolution of Airbus Helicopters’ most successful light, twin-engine helicopter. It has been the backbone of British police and EMS operations for the last decade and the H135 provides the improved capability for it to continue in this role for the decade to come.”